Talbots Restructures, Adding On-Trend, Younger Looks

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After a rough period lasting several seasons, Talbot's is fighting to bring itself back with invigorated, younger fashion offerings on top of a complete financial overhaul and a little help from the First Lady.

The mall chain most associated with slightly dowdy separates for an older set has implemented some radical changes in its financing structure, staff and operations in order to pave the way for a whole new look. Showing off increasingly stylized campaigns for the past few seasons -- the latest of which is previewed by the Wall Street Journalhere -- Talbots aims to draw a more fashion-forward and eclectic customer base of women 35 and over, while holding on to their loyal, conservatively dressed fans.

The spring 2010 line, as shown by chic young things Anouck Lepere and Kirsty Hume, includes a new repertoire of tailored pants and jackets, prints in bright florals and polka dots, as well as lots of fun flats and ever-so-slightly on-trend wedges for summer.

Although they've got a while to go to build up their fashion cred (and get on totally solid financial footing), Talbot's is really giving it a solid effort -- and if J. Crew's metamorphosis from stuffy prep standby to fashion-saturated brand of the moment is any indication, they've got a fighting chance.